Netanyahu rules out Gaza annexation, says 'preparing to establish security perimeter'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. (File photo/AP)

Ahead of a meeting with security officials to discuss a possible expansion of military operation in Gaza after the breakdown of ceasefire talks last month, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday addressed international concerns and stated that they "will not annex Gaza".

According to a report by News18, Netanyahu made it clear that the war’s primary objectives remain the complete destruction of Hamas and the return of all Israeli hostages.

Israel will not annex Gaza and intends to eventually hand it over to a transitional governing body. It is also preparing to establish a new "security perimeter" inside Gaza to prevent future threats as part of the post-war plan, Netanyahu revealed.

The Israeli PM also emphasised that the conflict could end swiftly, possibly “tomorrow", if Hamas were to lay down its arms and release the captives unconditionally, News18 reported.

Meanwhile, the meeting of the security officials, scheduled for Thursday evening, could result in an order for the full reoccupation of Gaza for the first time since Israel withdrew soldiers and settlers two decades ago. Such a move would be aimed at boosting Israel's security, but is fraught with humanitarian and diplomatic risks, AP reported.

Israel-Hamas War

Since Israel launched its offensive following the October 7 Hamas attack, at least 61,000 people, mostly women and children, have been killed in Gaza. While Israeli forces claim to have severely weakened Hamas, the group continues to launch sporadic attacks. Gaza's infrastructure is devastated, and the region is nearing famine.

International negotiations involving Egypt, Qatar, and the US have yet to deliver a lasting ceasefire despite months of talks. Multiple ceasefire attempts -- including a six-week pause negotiated by the Trump administration in January -- have failed to yield a solution.